Lake Cargelligo Shooting: Town Under Lockdown After Three Killed in NSW
Quick Summary
A small town in New South Wales was placed under lockdown after a deadly shooting in Lake Cargelligo killed three people, prompting a major police operation.
Lake Cargelligo, NSW – Town Under Lockdown After Deadly Shooting
Lake Cargelligo, NSW – A small provincial town in New South Wales remained under lockdown Thursday evening following a violent shooting that killed three people and critically injured another, as police continue to search for a gunman thought to be equipped with a long-arm weapon.
At 4:40 PM local time, emergency services were dispatched to Walker Street near Yelkin Street in Lake Cargelligo due to a reported shooting. Officers from the Central West Police District went to the area and discovered several victims.
According to NSW Police, the attack killed two ladies and one male, while another man was taken to hospital in serious but stable condition.
Ongoing Police Operation
A large police operation is presently ongoing in the town, which is located approximately 611 kilometers west of Sydney in New South Wales' Central West region. Lake Cargelligo has a population of around 1,100 people, according to the 2021 census.
The gunman is still at large, and rumors indicate he is holed up in the town with a long-arm weapon. Heavy-armed tactical police units have been dispatched to the area as officials attempt to find and detain the culprit.
Police have formed a crime scene and sent geo-targeted text messages advising residents to stay indoors and avoid the area. NSW Police made a message on social media highlighting the gravity of the situation: "The public is urged to avoid the area and for local residents to stay inside."
Local business owners have reported heavy police presence in the town. A staff member at the Commercial Hotel in the town center told AAP that they were remaining inside and attempting to stay out of sight after what they believed to be a shooting at a residential residence.
Roy Butler, the independent member for Barwon, described the situation as terrible, saying: "As there have been a number of shootings and the offender has not been detained - please stay indoors until the advice changes."
Investigation Details
The Sydney Morning Herald reported that the event is being examined as a possible domestic violence attack. According to Seven News, the gunman allegedly departed the scene in a local council vehicle.
Police are planned to present additional information at an 8 p.m. media briefing while the investigation proceeds.
About Lake Cargelligo.
Lake Cargelligo is a tiny country community located in New South Wales' Central West region, about three hours southwest of Dubbo. The close-knit community is currently dealing with one of the most devastating incidents in its recent history.
The situation is still active and growing, with authorities keeping a presence in the area to resolve the matter and protect public safety.